Rural Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Questions (1896)

Bríd Smith

Question:

1896. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she intends to commit to the plans for a long-awaited community centre on the Tullow Road, Carlow; if her attention has been drawn to reports that the plans have been designed by the local authority and that a community consultation has taken place in an area that has one of the largest population densities in Carlow town and urgently requires proper amenities; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the plans have been ready for almost a year; when the Government will commit to matching the necessary funding; when the funding will be released; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63353/22]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

Last April, I launched the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF). This was a new €15m capital fund to support community groups with the upgrade and refurbishment of existing community centres.

On October 12th, I announced over €12.5 million in funding for 580 successful Category 1 applicants. On December 8th, I was delighted to announce a further €33 million in funding for 278 successful Category 2 and 3 applicants. Details of the successful applicants are available on my Department’s website.

It should be noted that the development/building of new community centres was not covered under this Fund. However, is intended that the 2023 fund will be targeted for new build community centres as well as upgrades and improvements to existing centres.

The details of this scheme are currently being developed by officials within my Department and I hope to announce further details in quarter 1 of 2023. The group in question could consider applying to this new fund to help with the costs of their proposed facility.